Crayon Sky Music

What kind of guitars gain value over time?

I own a 1994 Gibson Les Paul Standard, i have been playing guitar for about 6 years. But what kind of guitars Truly gain value over time? i see 1957 Gibson’s going for over $100,000 on ebay. Older the better?
Im just curious if my guitar will gain value over time, and what kind of guitars gain over time, such as 2008 gibson les paul STUDIOS.

That’s a difficult question to answer. In general, things that were special when originally purchased have a better chance of holding their value than things that were run of the mill. In the case of electric guitars, the older ones are of value because of their rarity. Gibson’s output in the first few years was a fraction of what it is now. The original Flying Vs were produced in small numbers so they’re rare and valuable too. Ditto for things like the original Gretsch White Penguin.

With acoustics there’s also the factor of materials used, since the CITES treaty has limited the use of such things as Brazilian rosewood, ivory, and tortoise shell. Guitars originally made with those materials are worth a lot now.

It is impossible to tell if your guitar will hold its value. There may come a day – perhaps decades from now – when the selling price of new ones is so much higher than it is now that you could sell yours for more than you paid for it but that’s not the same as gaining value in any real sense. My guitar – a 1979 Martin OM-45 – cost me $2000 in 1980 but now it lists for $10,000 and sells for over $6000. I’m sure I could sell my used for more than I paid but that’s simply because prices have risen in the last 30 years.

“Sweater Girl” Music Video on Gibson Les Paul 1994